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Top Digital Nomad Cities in Portugal
Which Portuguese cities are the best to live in as a digital nomad? We have compiled for you the top 5 of the best places in the country.
Portugal has become one of the favourite destinations for digital nomads thanks to its mix of tradition, modernity and quality of life, but which are the best cities in Portugal to live as a digital nomad? You can choose from destinations on the coast with a quiet atmosphere to urban centres full of life and opportunities. The country offers a wide range of options to suit different work styles and preferences. In this article, we will explore the best cities to live in Portugal as a nomad, highlighting their particularities and advantages.
The variety of landscapes and the hospitality of its people make Portugal an easy country to adapt to. Its technological infrastructure is constantly improving and it boasts coworking spaces and active nomad communities that facilitate the integration of those who choose to settle there temporarily or permanently. We analyse which destinations are positioned as the best cities in Portugal to live in, both for their attractiveness and the facilities for working.
Top 5 cities to live in as a digital nomad in Portugal
Top 5 digital nomad cities in Portugal to live in. We have selected those that offer excellent technology infrastructure, well-equipped coworking spaces, a welcoming community, tourist attractions and a good quality of life. If you want to have a secure and unlimited connection in any of these cities, we recommend the Holafly eSIM ready to choose your next destination in Portugal?
5. Faro
Faro is ranked as the number five best place to live in Portugal. Located in the heart of the Algarve, it combines natural beauty with a tranquil atmosphere. The city is famous for its charming old town, full of cobbled streets and a rich history dating back to Roman times. With a warm and sunny climate for most of the year, Faro is perfect for those looking to enjoy the beach and outdoor activities. The technology infrastructure has improved in recent years, with several coworking spaces opening to cater to the growing community of digital nomads.
Tourist attractions:
- Parque Natural da Ria Formosa: This park is a unique ecosystem that is home to various species of birds and flora. It is an ideal place for nature lovers, where you can enjoy activities such as hiking, cycling and bird-watching, as well as enjoy the stunning scenery of wetlands and beaches.
- Old town of Faro: The old town is a maze of cobbled streets that preserve a rich architectural heritage, with historic buildings and Roman murals. Highlights include Faro Cathedral and the Vila Arch, which offer a glimpse into the city’s past.
- Faro Beach: This long golden sandy beach is perfect for enjoying the sun and the sea. With a good selection of bars and restaurants, it is a popular place for both locals and tourists looking to relax by the ocean.
| Item | Monthly expenditure |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 600-800 euros |
| Food | 250 euros |
| Transport | 40 euros |
| Leisure | 100 euros |
| Total | 1.000-1,200 euros |
5. Porto
Porto, one of Portugal’s best cities to live in, is famous for its wine and stunning architecture. It has a vibrant culture and a cosmopolitan atmosphere that attracts digital nomads from all over the world. The city has a good network of coworking spaces and cafés with Wi-Fi, allowing you to work efficiently while enjoying a stimulating environment. In addition, Porto has a mild climate and a digital community that organises events and meetings for nomads. If you need more information, you can consult our post: Where to stay in Porto as a digital nomad: the best options.
Tourist attractions:
- Ribeira: This emblematic neighbourhood on the banks of the Douro River is famous for its colourful houses and cobbled streets. It is an ideal place to stroll around, enjoy the local gastronomy in its restaurants and contemplate the impressive views of the river and the Don Luis I bridge.
- Don Luis I Bridge: An iconic iron bridge, designed by a disciple of Gustave Eiffel, connects Porto with Vila Nova de Gaia. It offers spectacular panoramic views of the city and is a popular place to take photos, especially at sunset.
- Caves de vino de Oporto: Located in Vila Nova de Gaia, these cellars are famous for the production of Port wine. Visitors can take guided tours and tastings, learning about the winemaking process and the history of wine in the region.
| Item | Monthly expenditure |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 700-900 euros |
| Food | 300 euros |
| Transport | 30 euros |
| Leisure | 120 euros |
| Total | 1.150-1,350 euros |
3. Lisbon
Lisbon, the capital, is a trendy destination for digital nomads. We ranked it number four as the best city to live in Portugal. It is a city that combines a rich historical heritage with a modern technological scene. With multiple coworking spaces and a wide range of cultural activities on offer, Lisbon has become a hub for professionals working remotely. The diversity of its nomad community makes exchanging ideas and making professional connections easy. You can find more details about their accommodation in our article: Where to stay in Lisbon as a digital nomad: the best options.
Tourist attractions:
- Belém Tower: This 16th century fortress is a World Heritage Site and a symbol of the Age of Discoveries. It offers spectacular views of the Tagus River and is a fascinating place to explore Portugal’s maritime history.
- Bairro Alto: A bohemian neighbourhood known for its lively nightlife and artistic atmosphere. During the day, its streets are quiet and perfect for take a stroll, while at night it transforms into a hub of bars and live music.
- Jeronimos Monastery: Another World Heritage Site, this impressive monastery is an outstanding example of Manueline architecture. Its cloister and church are true masterpieces that reflect the richness of Portuguese history.
| Item | Monthly expenditure |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 900-1,200 euros |
| Food | 350 euros |
| Transport | 50 euros |
| Leisure | 150 euros |
| Total | 1.450-1,750 euros |
2. Braga
Braga, one of the oldest cities in the country, is known for its rich history and friendly atmosphere. The city has been ranked as one of Portugal’s best cities to live in for digital nomads, thanks to its low cost of living and growing technology infrastructure. Braga offers an excellent quality of life, with easy access to services and cultural activities. Its community is friendly and active, allowing you to integrate quickly.
Tourist attractions:
- Sanctuary of Bom Jesus do Monte: This pilgrimage site is famous for its baroque staircase, which offers panoramic views of the city. The sanctuary is surrounded by gardens and is an ideal place for reflection and spirituality.
- Garden of Santa Barbara: This historic garden, located next to the Episcopal Palace, is known for its beauty and tranquillity. With colourful flowers and well-kept paths, it is a perfect place to take a stroll and enjoy the atmosphere.
- Braga Cathedral: The cathedral is one of the oldest in Portugal and an important religious site. Its mix of architectural styles, from Romanesque to Baroque, makes it an interesting place to explore the history and culture of the region.
| Item | Monthly expenditure |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 500-700 euros |
| Food | 200 euros |
| Transport | 30 euros |
| Leisure | 80 euros |
| Total | 800-1,000 euros |
1. Coimbra
The number one best place to live in Portugal goes to Coimbra. Known for its prestigious university, it is a centre of knowledge and culture. The city combines history and modernity, offering an inspiring environment for digital nomads. The coworking infrastructure is excellent and the cost of living is more affordable compared to other larger cities. Coimbra has an active nomad community, with events that promote the exchange of experiences and collaboration.
Tourist attractions:
- Founded in 1290, University of Coimbra is one of the oldest universities in Europe. Its impressive campus is home to libraries, gardens, historic buildings and is a place of history and knowledge.
- Biblioteca Joanina: This magnificent baroque library, part of the University of Coimbra, is famous for its architecture and valuable volumes. It is considered one of the most beautiful libraries in the world and offers guided tours to discover its rich history.
- Botanical Garden: An extensive garden offering a variety of exotic plants and trees, as well as quiet walking trails. It is a perfect place to relax and enjoy nature in the middle of the city.
| Item | Monthly expenditure |
|---|---|
| Accommodation | 400-600 euros |
| Food | 200 euros |
| Transport | 20 euros |
| Leisure | 70 euros |
| Total | 700-900 euros |
Best towns to live as a digital nomad in Portugal
If you like a quieter life in a rural setting, Portugal has towns that are perfectly suited to the life of a digital nomad. The advantages of living in a town are that you will enjoy being surrounded by nature, you will be able to walk without having to waste money on transport and you will also save a lot of money on accommodation. Here we show you the best destinations in Portugal to live in a town:
- Ericeira: Known for its stunning beaches and surfing scene, Ericeira is a seaside town that combines natural beauty with a welcoming community. Good internet connection and coworking spaces make it an attractive place to work while enjoying the sea.
- Óbido: This picturesque medieval town, surrounded by walls, offers a peaceful setting full of history. Its cobbled streets and well-preserved buildings create an inspiring atmosphere. In addition, there are several cafés with Wi-Fi that allow you to work in picturesque surroundings.
- Tavira: Located in the Algarve, Tavira is famous for its traditional architecture and sandy beaches. The city has a serene atmosphere and an affordable cost of living. Its infrastructure, with numerous workspaces, makes life as a digital nomad easy.
- Piodão: This charming mountain town, known for its stone houses, is ideal for those seeking a more rural setting. Although it is small, it offers an adequate internet connection and a quiet lifestyle, perfect for concentrating on work.
Why live as a digital nomad in Portugal?
Portugal has become one of the most attractive destinations for digital nomads for several reasons. Firstly, the country offers a pleasant and sunny climate for most of the year, allowing for an outdoor lifestyle. In addition, the rich culture, delicious cuisine and warmth of the people create a welcoming atmosphere that makes nomads feel at home.
From a practical point of view, Portugal has a good technological infrastructure and a wide range of coworking spaces, which facilitates remote working. Cities and towns are well connected so that different regions can be easily explored. The cost of living is also attractive compared to other European countries, so you can enjoy a good quality of life without spending too much.
If you are considering moving to Portugal as a digital nomad, it is important to do your research on the legal aspects. Consult our visa guide for digital nomads in Portugal and make sure you understand the taxes for digital nomads. What’s more, for those looking for a more communal experience, there are excellent co-living options in Portugal that encourage social interaction.
Finally, we also invite you to read our complete guide for digital nomads in Portugal which will be of great help to you to get all the key information you need to know. These resources will help you plan your adventure in Portugal and make the most of your experience as a digital nomad.
Frequently asked questions when choosing the best city to live as a digital nomad in Portugal
The best cities to live in Portugal tend to be those that are not capital cities, such as Braga, Coimbra or Tavira. These cities offer a lower cost of living compared to Lisbon and Porto, allowing digital nomads to enjoy a good quality of life without spending too much.
Lisbon and Porto stand out for their wide variety of coworking spaces, offering everything from private offices to shared work areas. However, other cities such as Faro and Ericeira are also seeing an increase in the supply of spaces for digital nomads.
When choosing a city, it is important to consider aspects such as cost of living, internet quality, availability of coworking spaces, climate and local culture. Researching the activities and community of digital nomads in each city can also be very helpful in making the right decision.
Living in a town in Portugal offers several advantages, such as a quieter and less crowded environment, which can help concentration and productivity. In addition, towns tend to have a lower cost of living, which allows for a good quality of life.
One of the best towns to live as a digital nomad in the country is Ericeira. It offers good internet connectivity, several coworking spaces and an active community of digital nomads, making it one of the best destinations in Portugal to live, work and enjoy the outdoor lifestyle. What’s more, its proximity to Lisbon makes it easy to explore the city while living in a quieter environment.
The best cities to live in Portugal tend to be those that are not capital cities, such as Braga, Coimbra or Tavira. These cities offer a lower cost of living compared to Lisbon and Porto, allowing digital nomads to enjoy a good quality of life without spending too much.
Lisbon and Porto stand out for their wide variety of coworking spaces, offering everything from private offices to shared work areas. However, other cities such as Faro and Ericeira are also seeing an increase in the supply of spaces for digital nomads.
When choosing a city, it is important to consider aspects such as cost of living, internet quality, availability of coworking spaces, climate and local culture. Researching the activities and community of digital nomads in each city can also be very helpful in making the right decision.
Living in a town in Portugal offers several advantages, such as a quieter and less crowded environment, which can help concentration and productivity. In addition, towns tend to have a lower cost of living, which allows for a good quality of life.
One of the best towns to live as a digital nomad in the country is
Ericeira. It offers good internet connectivity, several coworking spaces and an active community of digital nomads, making it one of the best destinations in Portugal to live, work and enjoy the outdoor lifestyle. What’s more, its proximity to Lisbon makes it easy to explore the city while living in a quieter environment.
